The Uruguayan Football Association announced on Thursday that it has hired Diego Forlán as the new head coach of Uruguay's senior and under-20 national teams.
Forlán, 47, a former forward for Manchester United, Atlético de Madrid and Inter Milan, replaces Argentine coach Marcelo Bielsa, who left after Uruguay was eliminated in the group stage of the World Cup.
Starting with the under-20s
According to the association, Forlán will begin work immediately with the under-20 squad before fully taking over the senior team.
The association said in a statement that Forlán was returning to the place where he left an indelible mark, calling him a reference point, an idol and a symbol of an unforgettable generation, and saying the best player of the 2010 World Cup was coming back to contribute his experience, leadership and deep knowledge of international football in a coaching role.
Bielsa's exit
The appointment is part of a broader overhaul of the Uruguayan national team following Bielsa's departure. Bielsa left at the end of his contract and admitted in a press conference that he had failed to turn the talented squad into a team capable of avoiding a disappointing World Cup campaign. Uruguayan media also reported tension between Bielsa and part of the squad during the tournament.
Forlán's playing career
As a player, Forlán made 112 appearances for Uruguay, won the 2011 Copa América and was named best player of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. After retiring in 2019, he began a coaching career at Peñarol and Atenas. His debut in charge of Uruguay is expected during international friendlies between September and November.
